Dateline Pacific evening edition for 17 July 2018

The volcano on Vanuatu's Ambae Island is emitting a fresh load of ash and smoke after an eruption on Monday; As it prepares for a referendum that could convey independence the autonomous Papua New Guinea region of Bougainville is looking at ways to broaden its economic base; A defence expert says New Zealand's new military aircraft will be a step up for search and rescue in the Pacific; An umbrella organisation for civil society groups in Vanuatu is putting the focus on the need for political reform.